Honoring Black History Month in Alameda County Assessor's Office Bulletin

Dear Alameda County Residents,  February is Black History Month, a time to honor the achievements and lasting impact of Black Americans across our nation and here in Alameda County. We recognize leaders past and present who have advanced justice and opportunity, and we celebrate the individuals in our community who continue that legacy today, including those honored at Supervisor Lena Tam's African American Recognition Awards. Residents are invited to participate in upcoming community events: Black History Film Festival – Oakland 16th Annual Bayview Black History Month & Lunar New Year Celebration City of Berkeley Black History Month Celebration The Apology - Free Screening in Alameda Black History Month is not only a time to remember the past, but also to engage with and support the vibrant communities that shape our shared future. Sincerely,  Phong La Alameda County Assessor In Memory of Reverend Jesse Jackson We honor the life and enduring legacy of Reverend Jesse Jackson, a towering figure in the American civil rights movement whose work shaped generations of advocacy for justice and equality. A protégé of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Reverend Jackson carried forward the fight for voting rights, economic opportunity, fair housing, labor rights, and access to education and health care. Through the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition, he brought the voices of underrepresented communities into national conversations and corporate boardrooms, urging institutions to open doors and create pathways to opportunity. His leadership championed nonviolence, empowerment, and self-determination, inspiring millions to stand for fairness and human dignity. Reverend Jackson also maintained meaningful ties to the Bay Area, visiting on many occasions to support local causes, engage young people, and encourage civic participation. His lifelong commitment to justice leaves a lasting imprint on our nation and reminds us that progress is built through courage, persistence, and collective action. Honoring Supervisor Keith Carson Supervisor Keith Carson's more than three decades of service have left a lasting impact on Alameda County. First elected in 1993 to represent District 5, he has been a steadfast champion for equity, opportunity, and community well-being. Throughout his tenure, Supervisor Carson worked to expand affordable housing, advance health equity, strengthen economic opportunity, and reform systems to better serve residents. His leadership brought together community organizations, faith leaders, businesses, and policymakers to create meaningful and lasting change. He also helped guide Alameda County through a period of innovation, supporting initiatives that modernized government, increased transparency, and embraced responsible use of emerging technologies. The Alameda County Assessor's Office is especially grateful for his consistent support over the years. Our work has been strengthened by his commitment to ensuring the resources necessary to serve residents effectively. Supervisor Carson leaves a legacy defined not only by policy achievements, but by the lives he uplifted and the communities he strengthened. African American Recognition Awards During Black History Month, Alameda County Supervisor Lena Tam hosts the Annual African American Recognition Awards to honor Black leaders and achievers who have made significant contributions to our community. The ceremony, traditionally held each February at the District 3 Office in San Leandro, highlights individuals whose leadership, service, and innovation uplift Alameda County. The 3rd Annual African American Recognition Awards, held on February 11, 2026, were organized in partnership with Hip Hop TV and the Urban League of the Greater San Francisco Bay Area. This year's honorees represented a wide range of fields, including public safety, health care, the arts, entrepreneurship, youth leadership, and community advocacy. 2026 Award Recipients: Trail Blazer Award: Dr. Hiedi Garske, Deputy Markita L. Sayles, Ohemaa Nyanin, Marie Gilmore Community Award: Chief McDonald, Dr. Jessica Goode Inspirational Artist Award: Ranzel Merritt, Eric Murphy Entrepreneur Award: Michele McQueen Innovative Community Solutions Award: Dee Johnson Positive Impact Award: Eric Adams Youth Leadership Award: June Rybolt (Junie Ma), Malik Jefferson The Alameda County Assessor's Office was proud to join in celebrating these outstanding leaders and their contributions to our community. Events: Get the Latest—Follow Us on Instagram & Facebook

Alameda County Assessor's Office | 1221 Oak Street, Room 145 | Oakland, CA 94612 US